What Is TMJ Therapy?

The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is where your jaw connects to your skull, allowing you to open and close your mouth smoothly. Sometimes this joint can become damaged or injured, causing a painful condition called temporomandibular joint dysfunction or disorder (TMD). If you experience jaw pain or hear clicking or popping noises when you move your jaw, schedule a consultation with Reflections Dental in Peoria, AZ. Dr. Hildebrandt uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate and treat TMD, aiming to relieve your discomfort. Treatment options depend on the cause and severity of your condition and may include oral appliances (such as night guards), bite adjustments, dental restorations, and more.

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What Can I Expect from TMJ Therapy?

To diagnose TMD, Dr. Hildebrandt will first listen carefully to your symptoms and concerns, followed by a thorough physical exam. He will assess your jaw movement, check for misalignment, clenching, or teeth grinding, and examine the surrounding muscles for tenderness or swelling. Digital imaging and bite analysis may be used to identify underlying issues affecting your TMJ. Based on these findings, Dr. Hildebrandt will discuss treatment options, which could include custom dental appliances, orthodontics, or restorative procedures like crowns, bridges, or dentures.

What Is the Aftercare for TMJ Therapy?

In addition to professional treatments, Dr. Hildebrandt will recommend at-home strategies to ease your symptoms. These might include eating softer foods, avoiding habits like nail-biting or chewing gum, applying warm compresses to the jaw, and practicing relaxation techniques. You may also receive jaw exercises to strengthen muscles or prescriptions for medications to reduce pain, inflammation, or muscle tension.

Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your progress. If your current treatment isn’t effective, Dr. Hildebrandt may adjust your plan. After your TMD is managed, continuing annual dental exams at Reflections Dental will help maintain your oral health and prevent future issues.

What Are the Benefits of TMJ Therapy?

TMJ therapy at Reflections Dental offers many benefits to patients in Peoria, AZ, including:

  • Reduction of chronic jaw pain and soreness
  • Improved jaw function and range of motion
  • Relief from neck pain, headaches, facial pain, and earaches
  • Decrease in jaw clicking or popping sounds
  • Better sleep quality
  • Lower risk of additional dental problems
  • Reduced stress and tension associated with chronic pain
  • Overall enhancement of quality of life

Am I a Good Candidate for TMJ Therapy?

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) can result from jaw injuries, chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, or dental malocclusion (misaligned teeth). Medical conditions such as tumors in the temporomandibular joint or arthritis can also cause TMD. In some cases, the exact cause is unknown, but if you experience symptoms, Dr. Hildebrandt can diagnose and treat your TMJ disorder. Common symptoms include jaw tenderness or pain, facial muscle spasms, a sensation of jaw stiffness or locking, frequent headaches near the ears, and clicking, popping, or cracking sounds when opening the jaw.

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Where does TMJ come from?

TMJ can be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Jaw clenching (bruxism), inherited traits, and poor posture may all contribute to the development of TMJ. At Reflections Dental, we will work to identify the root cause during your consultation.

How long will TMJ therapy take?

The duration of TMJ therapy depends on the severity of your condition. Mild to moderate cases may resolve more quickly, while severe cases could require longer treatment. During your consultation, we will provide an estimate based on your individual needs.

Does TMJ cause headaches or migraines?

Many patients at our Peoria, AZ practice notice a connection between their TMJ symptoms and headaches or migraines. TMJ can also cause chronic inflammation and pain around the cheekbone and ear. If you experience these symptoms, consulting with Dr. Hildebrandt can help you get an accurate diagnosis and begin effective treatment.

Advanced TMD Treatments

Pain from temporomandibular joint dysfunction can interfere with eating, speaking, and daily life. Since TMD has various causes and treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Donald Hildebrandt at Reflections Dental in Peoria, AZ. He will perform a comprehensive exam and discuss the best treatment plan tailored to your condition. Contact our team today to learn more and book your appointment.